How to Obtain GCC (G-MARK) Certification for Gulf Countries

I. What is GCC G‑Mark Certification? GCC stands for Gulf Cooperation Council, whose member states include Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, and Bahrain (Yemen also recognizes this certification system). G‑Mark (Gulf Conformity Mark) is a mandatory conformity mark established by the Gulf Standardization Organization (GSO). It certifies that a product meets the basic safety, health, and environmental requirements of Gulf technical regulations. The key advantage is “one certification, multiple countries” – once a product obtains the G‑Mark certificate, it can circulate freely in all GCC member states (and Yemen) without needing to apply for separate national certifications. This can save 30–50% of regional market access costs. II. Application Process The core process for GCC G‑Mark certification consists of the following steps: Step 1: Confirm whether the product is within the mandatory scopeCheck if the product falls under the mandatory certification list issued by GSO, such as low‑voltage electrical equipment, household appliances, and children’s toys. Currently, the mandatory products are mainly low‑voltage electrical equipment (LVE) and children’s toys. The voltage range for LVE is AC 50‑1000 V and DC 75‑1500 V. Step 2: Prepare documents and submit the applicationThe manufacturer submits product documents (manual, circuit diagram, HS code), samples, and the application form to a GSO‑authorized certification body. It is advisable to prepare 2–3 test samples. Step 3: Document review and product testingThe body evaluates the product’s safety and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) according to GCC technical regulations, determines the test...

GCC G-Mark Certification for children’s toys

For children's toys, obtaining the GCC G-Mark certification is a mandatory requirement for exporting to the member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). This certification ensures that toys comply with the unified safety standards of the Gulf region and serves as the "entry permit" for selling into countries such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Core Concepts GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council): A political and economic union comprising seven countries: Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, and Yemen. G-Mark (Gulf Conformity Mark): A mandatory conformity mark established by the GCC for specific product categories (e.g., children's toys and low-voltage electrical equipment). Without the G-Mark, toys cannot be legally sold in GCC member states. Certification Process & Key Requirements The core of applying for G-Mark certification is to prove that the product complies with the GCC Children's Toy Technical Regulation (BD-131704-01). This regulation requires toy manufacturers or importers to undergo certification through a GSO (Gulf Standardization Organization) recognized Notified Body. Below is an overview of the standard certification process and key requirements: ItemDetailsScopeAll products designed or intended for use by children under 14 years of age, including but not limited to: electric toys, plush toys, wooden toys, children's scooters, etc.Applicable StandardsTested mainly against EN 71 series or ISO 8124 series international standards. Electric toys must also comply with EN 62115 / IEC 62115.Key Test ItemsMechanical & physical properties, flammability, hazardous chemicals (e.g., heavy metal migration, phthalates), electrical safety, etc.Required Documents1. Completed application form2. Business license / company qualification...

Complete Guide to SABER Certification for Building Materials Exported to Saudi Arabia

1. Introduction to SABER Certification and Key Changes SABER is the mandatory online product safety certification system introduced by the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO). All products imported into Saudi Arabia must obtain the required certificates through the SABER platform to clear customs. Launched in 2019, SABER has now fully replaced the old SASO certification model and is the only electronic gateway for market access to Saudi Arabia. The official website is saber.sa – all applications must be completed on this platform. Critical Policy Updates for 2025: Full Mandatory Certification: As of January 1, 2025, all goods exported to Saudi Arabia must obtain PCoC (Product Conformity Certificate) and SCoC (Shipment Conformity Certificate) through the SABER system. The old “letter of commitment” customs clearance method has been completely abolished. Applying for certificates after the goods have arrived at port is invalid and will result in customs clearance failure. Certificates must be obtained before arrival: Applying for certificates after the vessel arrives is considered invalid, leads to clearance refusal, and may incur fines and demurrage charges. Ongoing HS Code Updates: Saudi SABER platform HS codes have been continuously updated since 2025, affecting building materials, metal products, stone, etc. After the new codes are implemented, existing certificates become invalid, and applicants must re-submit certification applications. 2. Applicable Product Scope: Which Building Materials Need Certification? SABER certification covers a wide range of building materials, mainly including the following six categories: CategoryTechnical RegulationTypical...

Saber Certification for Toys

Saber Certification for Toys – Complete Guide Saber certification is mandatory for entering the Saudi market. For toys, which fall under the GCC Technical Regulation for children's products, the full certification process consists of two main steps: Apply for a PC Certificate and then Apply for an SC Certificate. 🪪 Core Certification Process: Two Steps Before starting, ensure your Saudi importer has a valid account on the Saber platform – this is required for all applications. Step & CertificateKey ActionsRequired DocumentsValidityEstimated TurnaroundStep 1: Apply for PC Certificate(Product Conformity Certificate)Importer submits application via Saber platform. Approved by an authorized certification body.- GCC certificate & test reports- Product images & labels- Manufacturer's ISO 9001 certificate- Signed Declaration of Conformity1 yearRenewable. Re-application required if importer changes or product models change.Typically 3-7 working daysStep 2: Apply for SC Certificate(Shipment Conformity Certificate)Before each shipment, importer uploads final commercial invoice and packing list, links a valid PC certificate, and applies for SC.- Valid PC certificate- Commercial invoice- Packing listSingle shipment only1-2 working days after submission All applications, payments, and certificate issuances are done online via the Saber platform. No need to print paper certificates. Note: For toys, a valid GCC certificate is required before applying for the PC certificate. ✅ Key Policy Updates (2025) Full Mandatory Enforcement: From 1 January 2025, all shipments must obtain PCoC and SCoC via the Saber system. Letters of undertaking (LoU) are no longer accepted for customs clearance. High-Risk Product Rules & Shorter Test Report Validity: Children's toys are classified as high-risk products...

Saudi SABER Certification for Home Appliances

SABER Certification for Home Appliances – Exports to Saudi Arabia According to the latest requirements from the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) effective from January 1, 2025, all regulated products (including home appliances) exported to Saudi Arabia must obtain certification through the SABER system to clear customs successfully. The core function of the SABER platform is to issue electronic certificates required for customs clearance online. To obtain these certificates, the application must be initiated by a locally registered company in Saudi Arabia (the Saudi importer). Exporters themselves cannot apply directly. The certification process consists of two main steps, resulting in two types of certificates: PC Certificate (Product Certificate of Conformity): This is the market access permit for each product model in Saudi Arabia. It is usually valid for one year and can be used for multiple shipments. SC Certificate (Shipment Certificate of Conformity): This is the “customs clearance pass” for each shipment. One certificate per shipment. It must be applied for before the cargo arrives at the port; otherwise, clearance will be impossible. 📋 Certification paths for home appliances exported to Saudi Arabia SABER certification is not a standalone test but an integrated platform. For home appliances, obtaining a PC certificate on SABER usually requires first securing other core certifications. Depending on the type of appliance, the main certification paths are as follows: Product / Certification TypeCommon ExamplesKey Certification Path & NotesHigh-energy appliances – Energy Efficiency (EER) certificationRefrigerators, air conditioners, washing machines, dishwashersThis is the first and...

Saudi SABER Certification Guide for Automotive Spare Parts

SABER certification is a mandatory compliance requirement for automotive spare parts exported to the Saudi market. Below is a systematic overview covering certification system basics, applicable product scope, requirements, detailed process, document preparation, costs, timelines, and practical recommendations. 1. What is SABER Certification? SABER (Saudi Product Conformity Certificate) is a mandatory electronic customs clearance system launched in 2019 by the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO). It replaced the old SASO COC certification and aims to ensure imported products comply with Saudi technical regulations. To understand SABER, it is important to distinguish the roles: SASO is the government body that sets standards and issues Technical Regulations (TR), while SABER is the electronic platform that enforces these regulations – handling product registration, review, certificate issuance, and data integration with Saudi Customs. As of January 1, 2025, all goods exported to Saudi Arabia must obtain both PC and SC certificates through the SABER system. The old "letter of commitment" clearance method has been completely abolished. Furthermore, SC certificates applied for after the goods have arrived at port will be considered invalid – resulting in customs clearance failure, possible fines, demurrage, and other additional costs. 2. Scope of SABER Certification for Automotive Spare Parts Automotive spare parts fall under mandatory SABER certification. According to current Saudi regulations, the following automotive-related products require SABER certification: CategoryExamplesAutomotive safety componentsSafety glass, braking systems, lighting components, seat beltsWear partsTires, wiper blades, rearview mirrorsElectrical partsBatteries (including lithium batteries, car batteries)Complete vehicles & commercial vehiclesTrucks, trailers, semi-trailers (may require...